Art on the Avenue normally attracts 75,000 to Del Ray. This year’s festival will be virtual and run from Oct. 3 through Dec. 25. Photo by John Bordner/Gazette Packet
One of the region’s premier arts festivals is going virtual for 2020, with Del Ray’s Art on the Avenue kicking off Oct. 3 and running through Dec. 25 in an effort to provide ongoing support to local artists.
The event will feature over 150 artists, virtual experiences and a wide range of opportunities to support local artists while social distancing.
"Throughout the pandemic, art has brought us together while apart – providing much peace and enjoyment during uncertain times," said Art on the Avenue founder Pat Miller. "Our primary concern will always be the safety of our artists and our attendees, which makes an in-person event impossible this year. But cancelling Art on the Avenue entirely was never an option for us – our artists depend on the community's support to keep creating."
Participating artists will offer handmade items in a wide range of mediums, including wheel-thrown vases and bowls, tiles, sculpture, tote bags and purses, drawings and pastels, knitted and crocheted hats and gloves, woven scarves and shawls, gourmet food, fused and blown glass, jewelry, paintings, photography, and more.
In addition to continuing to connect the public with top regional artists, favorite Art on the Avenue traditions, including music, the Pie Baking Contest, and Kids Art Corner, will be modified to allow for social distancing.
"We're excited about continuing this vibrant, 25-year tradition with a virtual show," said 2020 Art on the Avenue chair Amy Eggers. "Throughout the fall and winter, our constant goal will be to connect our artists with the Alexandria community and beyond with the Del Ray creativity and spirit that has made this a beloved community event."
Traditionally held each fall on Mount Vernon Avenue, Art on the Avenue is a multicultural arts festival that draws an estimated 75,000 visitors each year. Virginia Living readers named Art on the Avenue the top arts event in the Northern Virginia region in 2020. For more information, visit https://www.artontheavenue.org/.